Ep. 42: indieVelo's Dr. George Gilbert, Watts Aren't Watts in the Present and Future of Defining Virtual Sport

The Virtual Velo Podcast p/b TheZommunique.com

For Episode 42 of the Virtual Velo Podcast, Chris and Emma welcome back indieVelo founder Dr. George Gilbert for the third time for their first time together as co-hosts. Quickly after the Apple TV release, which makes indieVelo accessible to a broad range of users and devices, he explains why "Watts Aren't Watts" when defining the future of virtual sport.

Dr. Gilbert addresses the "committed athlete" demographic, stating that "tactically interesting racing where riders have to make choices" constitutes the core elements of indieVelo, appealing to those who prioritize credibility and accuracy.

He explains how the recent draft physics update enhances this by integrating realistic bicycle physics, such as momentum, inertia, and gearing, into the virtual equation for the first time.

Graphics, acquisition, will indieVelo ever not be in Beta, and what will it truly take to bring cycling esports to the Olympics? Plus, other current events in cycling esports in the lead-up to the 2024 UCI Cycling Esports World Championships.

Don't miss the opportunity to delve even deeper into the topics discussed in this episode. We've included links to the articles that inspired our conversation.

• New Virtual Cycling Platform indieVelo is Defining the Future of Esports [Zommunique, June 6, 2023]
• Zwift’s Cycling Esports Commission Chairman and ZADA Lead Move On From the Company [Zommunique, June 20, 2023]
• Zwift Forms Working Partnership With Cycling Esports Platform indieVelo for Anti-Cheating Oversight [Zommunique, August 14, 2023]
• “It is time to focus on enhancing this key area,” says MyWhoosh’s Draft Physics Consultant [Zommunique, May 23, 2024]

Join us for a conversational ride where we not only lend a voice to the digital athlete but also bridge the gap between athlete and avatar. Let's explore the exciting future of virtual sport and digital athlete engagement together!